Hundreds of students were suspended from schools in Brantford and County of Brant until their parents can update their vaccination records. 

209 students with outdated immunization records with the Brant County Health Unit were suspended from school on Thursday, April 18 until their records are updated.

More than 150 elementary school students and 57 secondary school students were effected.

“Immunizations are important so students can be protected from many serious diseases that could spread easily in schools,” Ruth Gratton, manager clinic services at the health unit said.

“We also aim to have all students’ immunization information so we are prepared in case of an outbreak.”

Suspension letters were mailed to homes  of those born in 2001 and 2010 who, according to Health Unit records, needed one or more vaccinations to meet Ontario’s Immunization of School Pupils Act.

“The number of suspension letters sent out has continued to decrease every year,” Gratton said.

“We’re encouraged that this continued decrease means that our community takes immunization seriously.”

Last year 240 students were suspended for lacking the up-to-date vaccinations. 

If a student has already had immunizations that haven’t been reported to the Health Unit, parents can report them online, by phone or in person.

• Online 24/7 at www.bchu.org/emunization             
• Phone: 519-753-4937 ext. 451 (leave a voice message with the details requested)
• Fax: 519-753-2140 (include child’s name, date of birth and telephone number)
• Mail/In person: 194 Terrace Hill St., Brantford, ON N3R 1G7
• Drop box: Located outside east entrance door (Terrace Hill St. and McMurray St.)

To get missing vaccines, students can make an appointment at the Health Unit by calling 519-753-4937 ext. 451, or at their doctor’s office.

For more information about immunization and requirements, visit www.bchu.org/suspension or call 519-753-4937 ext. 451.